Emily is SO full of life and outgoing. I have experienced having someone taking photos for me who wasn't extremely talkative and friendly and it was uncomfortable, but Emily makes sure that you're having a good time and that you're being yourself in the photos that she takes. I have never felt uncomfortable while Emily has taken my photos. If you don't know her personally, she will immediately become your friend. She is extremely personable and lively! I have NEVER been disappointed with Emily's work and I would recommend her wholeheartedly to anyone who is looking to have photos done! She's phenomenal! / JESSIE ESTUPINAN

Working with Emily was amazing. She was super helpful in directing us to go or move in a way that would look best while also letting us do our own thing so it looked natural and so we could freely express how in love we are. And then I got the photos back and I am SO in love with them! / ELIZABETH BRYSON

Emily is a visionary behind the lens! Being in front of her camera is enlivening. Her skillfulness and creativity work in natural unison, never failing to capture the spirit of who I am. To be photographed by Emily is to be deemed lovely- her eyes notice and celebrate the beauty uniquely carried by every human being. I leave photo shoots with Emily touched by her passion for her art & gifted with a new set of precious moments in picture form. / GRACE SCHAFER

This day was so special to us. We had never done any sort of photo shoot in our relationship and we were so excited. That excitement also brought a lot of nerves because we're not totally comfortable in front of the camera. Emily made it so unbelievably easy and fun. We had just met her for the first time that day and I think I laughed the hardest I have in a long time. I am already looking forward to our wedding day pictures and family shoots in the future. She is so awesome! / KATT CARDINALE

Not only is Emily an extremely talented photographer, but she is an absolute dream to work with. Luke was a little nervous to be in front of the camera and after about 30 seconds, Emily was able to get him to loosen up and forget there was a camera on us! Emily's ability to capture authentic moments is incredible. Her style marries photojournalism and art in the most beautiful way and we couldn't be happier. We will cherish these photos for a lifetime. / KATIE ARNOLD

You know how any time you try do something important it’s typically ladled with stress and fear? Photo shoots with Emily are nothing like that. She has a way of putting your mind and heart at ease and immediately ushering in fun. Until she came into our lives, our family photo sessions had only ever consisted of impatience, frustration, and blurry portraits from a stranger at Sears. But then Em came in with her talent and humor and kindness and gave us the first EXPERIENCE we could hold dear to our hearts and look back on with joy forever. Because she is incredibly gifted both relationally AND creatively, she’s able to capture the spirit of her subjects in a way that leaves you feeling known and adored. I 100% recommend Emily Illuminate to anyone who’s considering her. You’ll walk away with a stunning product wrapped with love and intentionality. / HOPE SCHOEN